A Step-by-Step Guide for Conducting a "Consensus and Diversity" Workshop in Global Education. School Improvement through Global Education.

Kinghorn, Jon Rye

The document explains how to plan a two-day orientation workshop in which high school faculty and staff examine global issues prior to developing and implementing a global education program. In addition to increasing awareness of global issues, the program is intended to improve the educational environment by promoting cooperation between students, teachers, administrators, and community members. The workshop requires that common goals be agreed on by all participants. After initial consensus is reached, diversity is encouraged in seeking suggestions to solutions of global problems. The workshop stresses commitment by school staff for a one-year classroom study of global issues, support by superintendent and school board, and a statement of workshop goals by the project steering committee. Workshop activities are carried out in small groups consisting of individuals representing different ages, sexes, experiences, disciplines, personalities, and philosophies. Workshop sessions focus on topics such as time lines for the future, attitudes, values, and peace. Activities involve participants in discussing issues, playing educational games, creating time lines, filling in handouts, writing statements about various global problems, ranking issues and solutions, and analyzing parables. After participating in a workshop, teachers will be better able to help students consider alternative value systems, develop greater respect for other people, and increase awareness of global issues. (DB)